[NewellCrazy]

The seller may require you to pay by a particular method if s/he doesn't know you personally. There are numerous reports of scams going on and the seller may not accept a bank cashier's check or personal check. Or they may require that the check clear before they release the vehicle.

Wire transfer is convenient, but there's no way for you to get your money back if this isn't a real seller.

If you're meeting in person, the owner will sign the title document, releasing their ownership and hand it to you if/when they're comfortable with the form of payment.

There's a tradeoff between comfort level and convenience for both parties. Handing over the payment in cash and, at the same time, receiving the signed title document might be best for both, but it's inconvenient (and maybe risky) to carry around a lot of cash.

After you receive the title document, you'll need to visit a DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) office to formally register the vehicle in your name. At that time you'll also pay sales tax.